Microbial Basis of Systemic Malodor and PATM Conditions

Human odorprints, mostly owing to the microbiome, have proven their value as biomarkers of
health and environmental exposures. In recent years, microbial networks responsible for
localized malodors such as halitosis or axillary odor have been mapped by using next
generation sequencing approaches. Intestinal microbes responsible for psychologically
debilitating systemic malodor (whole-body and extraoral halitosis), however, remain to be
identified. Even a relatively straightforward disorder of choline metabolism
trimethylaminuria (TMAU) is thought to exhibit complex host-gene microbiome interactions and
has not been sufficiently studied.

Proposed controlled pilot study aims to explore the dynamics of microbial communities in
remission and flare-up periods. Better knowledge of the important aspects of disease
fluctuation should enhance patient care and, combined with our prior data, will help to
develop new therapies and treatments.

Inclusion Criteria:

- idiopathic malodor or PATM symptoms experienced over a period of several months or
years

- able to read and understand the study information

- willing and able to comply with questionnaires, nutritional recommendations, and other
study procedures

Exclusion Criteria:

- consistent inability to communicate and process things related to their symptoms

- consistent inability to distinguish physical symptoms from pure emotional reactions

- lack of motivation to start feeling better